James “Uppy” Uplinger age 78 of Chippewa Lake, formerly of Cedar Springs died Friday, December 8, 2023 at his home. He was born June 6, 1945 in Grand Rapids, MI the son of Ernest and Mary (Noonan) Uplinger. In his younger years Jim loved working the chains at the Cedar Springs High School football games and graduated from there in 1963. Jim was married to his loving wife Alice since 1978 and was blessed with an instant family, Ray, Rick, Randy and Shelly. He was an amazing card player and spent a lot of time playing with his friends and family. Jim always looked forward to cooking a big turkey for his family at Thanksgiving. You couldn’t meet Jim without him telling you a joke. Surviving are his wife of 45 years, Alice (Kaufman); children, Raymond (Christine) Lenardson, Rick Lenardson, Randy Lenardson, Shelly (Phil) Scheer; 10 grandchildren; 1 great grandson; brother, John (Helen) Uplinger, brother-in-law, Raymond Tate; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in his death by his brother, Dick Uplinger and sister Bonnie Tate. A celebration of Jim's life will be held from 2:00-5:00 pm Saturday, June 8, 2024 at The Farm, 134 Amy School Rd., Pierson, MI. Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.